High End Intergraded comparisons, Marantz, McIntosh, Levinson, Luxman....


Ive been trying to listen to higher end integrated amps but its not easy. 

Im looking for owners comparisons. 

 

I had a Marantz PM-KI Ruby that replaced lots of low powered SET gear with high efficient speakers im no longer using. 

I settled on a nice old pair of KEF Reference Model Fours from about 1999-2000. They are very hungry speakers. Very revealing. 

The Marantz Ruby was rather nice in all ways. 

Im trying a marantz PM-10s1 and although i was expecting a Bigger Better Ruby it turned out to be much more than that. I also got it for about 35% off list so it dramatically lowered the price point compared to competitive brands and products. 

I dont really want any DAC in the box. I actually wanted a good phono stage. Id buy a unit with a DAC but I wont be using it and I Do need a phono stage for a Rega with a AT OC9 MC cart. Limits choices based on additional costs. 

The PM-10 has a Much larger soundstage. Larger and tighter focused images. Wide, Tall and Deep. Much more detail and inner detail. Crystal clear presentation. Very tight and deep bass. Punch and slam. Very life-like presentation of instruments and vocals. Not necessarily bright but extended. Im rather happy but also very surprised. 

I feel maybe I should be exploring some other Integrated amps before settling in on this PM-10. Not easy. They cost allot to ship, return. 

The McIntosh MA7900 is an option but its more money than I spent and im not sure how it compares to the Marantz PM-10. Many say they are very similar in sound character. 

The Mark Levinson 5805 is also a bit more money and is said to be more so detailed and brighter. Is that true? Ive read the PM-10 is smoother and richer. I dont want any more detail or brightness. 

The Hegel 390 and MF MX8 lack phono which drives up the cost for me. Im not sure of their character in comparison to a McIntosh or Marantz. 

The Luxman seems to be one to try, the 507uxii but it has much lower power and some say its rather bright with a bass boom. 

 

Appreciate peoples comments based on what you've heard. 

 

steviet

I'd delete your OP and start over. Much easier that way. Copy and paste the rest.

Yeah, it's killing me slowly. LOL I blame Siri usually ;-)

The MA7900 is very heavy. Expensive to ship. Although Im not far from Binghamton NY and McIntosh home. Also AudioClassics. 

My buddy has the McIntosh MC402 that is rather good but is a much different beast than the MA series. Hes used BAT and PS Audio preamps with it. 

it really depends on the sound and features you are looking for

 

we have a huge selection of integrated amps so we would be open to having a

discusion with you

 

we have hegel coda naim nad icromega anthem krell and unison research and t+a

 

personally never liked Mcin tosh gear no ttransparent

 

like luxman better

 

the t+a gear is amazing

 

Dave And Troy

Audio intellect NJ

 

 

Beware of the audio dealer who says their gear is better than brands they do not carry.  I didn't think this was still happening in 2022 but once again, Audio Intellect, NJ proved me wrong.